There's something magical about the transition from day to night on the radio. As the sun sets and listeners settle in after work or school, the energy shifts. It's a time for connection, entertainment, and stories that resonate with the rhythm of evening life. This June, HITZ is reimagining that evening experience with an exciting new chapter: the introduction of Arka and Zach as the hosts of HITZ Tonight.
Starting 22 June 2026, the beloved evening slot—airing Monday to Friday from 8:00 PM to midnight—welcomes a dynamic duo that brings together two distinctive voices and compelling personalities. Zach, crowned champion of the NEXT ON HITZ talent search, joins forces with Arka to create something fresh and engaging. It's a pairing that feels both natural and full of possibility.
What makes this combination particularly compelling is the blend of strengths each host brings to the table. Zach arrives with the credibility of a champion, carrying a distinctive style that promises to deliver a fresh and exciting on-air experience. Arka, meanwhile, brings charisma and vibrant energy that lights up every conversation. Together, they're poised to create something truly dynamic—a show that feels relatable, impactful, and genuinely entertaining.
The revamped HITZ Tonight isn't just about new faces, though. The show is evolving with fresh content that speaks to what listeners care about. New talk sets will explore gaming and movies, diving deep into the entertainment that defines a generation. There's also a spotlight on rising local Malaysian talents, giving voice to the next wave of creators and performers shaping the country's cultural landscape.
Perhaps most notably, this pairing marks a historic moment for English-language radio in Malaysia. For the first time, two talents from Borneo are hosting an English-language show together. This milestone is more than symbolic—it reflects a commitment to representation and to celebrating the rich diversity of Malaysian talent. To honour this heritage, HITZ Tonight will feature a special Borneo segment dedicated to the stories, culture, entertainment, and talents emerging from Sabah and Sarawak.
As Sean Farrell Matjeraie, HITZ's Brand Manager, puts it: "By bringing together Zach and Arka, we are ushering in a new direction for HITZ. As a brand, we continue to stay ahead of trends and connect with the new generation of listeners. This fresh combination promises exciting ideas and engaging content that will keep audiences entertained throughout the night."
There's an authenticity to this pairing that feels right for the moment. Both hosts possess strong individual characters and unique delivery styles—the kind of personalities that naturally attract listeners and create genuine connection. In a media landscape that often feels crowded and formulaic, there's something refreshing about two voices that are unapologetically themselves.
The journey to this moment began with NEXT ON HITZ, a talent search that discovered Zach and opened doors for emerging broadcasters. While other finalists from the programme may find opportunities ahead—with management considering part-time announcer roles for select contestants—the spotlight now shines on this new duo and the possibilities they represent.
As listeners tune in each evening, they'll find more than just the latest hits and trending music. They'll discover conversations that matter, stories that resonate, and entertainment that feels crafted for them. HITZ Tonight with Arka and Zach is an invitation to be part of something evolving, something that celebrates both the familiar comfort of evening radio and the excitement of what's new.
The night is just beginning.
